What does refresh rate mean concerning DRAM?

Refresh rate in the context of Dynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM) specifically refers to how frequently the data stored in the memory cells needs to be refreshed to maintain its integrity. DRAM stores data in capacitors, which tend to lose charge over time. If not refreshed regularly, the data can become corrupted or lost. Thus, the refresh rate is crucial because it ensures that the stored information remains valid and accessible.

When a memory module is described as having a refresh rate, it highlights how many times per second the memory controller needs to read the data from the capacitors and write it back to the same locations to prevent data loss. This process is necessary because DRAM is volatile and does not retain data without constant refreshing.

Understanding this concept is fundamental for working with computer memory systems, especially when optimizing performance and reliability in tasks that rely heavily on memory, such as gaming or data-intensive applications.